16“ center bracket to 24” center framing

framingmountingtankless

I'm installing a tankless water heater (150lbs static load, 10" deep)

I only have one option for installation and it is a 2×3 framed wall with 24" centers.

The Top bracket is designed to mount on top of a horizontal crossmember with screws penetrating the cross member in four locations and the studs in two. The bottom bracket requires a cross member as well but it just bolts to the cross member.

My question is this. What is the best way to install this right (without rebuilding the wall). Double jack studs would work if the actual dimensions were 2×3, which they are not. Should I just add another stud inside and work off of that?

Best Answer

I would fit two 2x6 (or larger) blocks crossways between your studs at the two mounting locations. Put three 3" construction (not black drywall) screws through the studs into each end of the blocks. Pilot through the studs to avoid splitting. You won't need to pilot into the end-grain of the blocks unless they're very hard wood. 

___________________________________
___________________________________
| |*                     | |* <-- toenail screws or angle brackets
| |                      | |
| |                      | |
| |                      | |
| |______________________| |
| |                      | |*
| |      2x6 block       | |* <-- three screws
| |______________________| |*
| |                      | |
| |                      | |
| |                      | |

This will easily carry your heater. The only weakness at this point is the connection of each stud to the top plate. you might add toenailed screws or angle brackets there.

You could also lay in two 2x6 studs, flatwise, tight to each 2x3 stud in the bay where you'll mount the heater. This would give more horizontal stiffness if you feel like your studs are too flexible. Run screws through the 2x3 studs every foot or so.

___________________________________
___________________________________
| |      |        |      | |
| |      |        |      | |
| | 2x6  |        | 2x6  | |
| |      |        |      | |
| |      |        |      | |
Related Topic